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>> The embattled Republican governor of Maine on Tuesday saying he would consider resigning amid a backlash over accusations of racism. Paul LePage telling a local radio station quote, I'm looking at all options, when asked if he would finish out his term, and it's been a rough term. Reuters Northeast Bureau Chief Scott Malone.

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>> LePage has embraced controversy throughout his six years in office, and this latest flap emerged last week. When at an a public meeting, he produced a binder he had put together that he said showed that the vast majority of drug dealers arrested in Maine were black or hispanic.

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And when confronted by a local newspaper reporter about the idea that this may have been a racist remark, LePage reacted in anger. First to the reporter, and later calling a state lawmaker and leaving obscenity laden voicemail message.>> I would like to talk to you about your comments about my being a racist, you

BLEEP].

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I've spent my life helping black people and you little son of a

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cialist

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want you to record this and make it public because I'm after you.>> If LePage's bluntness reminds you of another boisterous politician, you're not the only one to draw the comparison.>> LePage has frequently voiced his approval of Republican Presidential candidate Donald Trump, describing himself and his blunt-spoken manner as somewhat of a precursor of Trump's political style.

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>> And the love flows both ways.>> I have a lot of respect for your Governor, he's a tremendous guy, Paul has done a fantastic job.>> On Tuesday, the Governor tweeting a tepid denial that he's stepping down, saying rumors of his resignation were, quote, exaggerated.